This creamy chicken and rice dish is like a warm hug in a bowl! With tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich sauce all cooked in one pot, it’s super cozy and easy to make.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless thighs are my favorite because they stay juicy. If you want to use breasts, that’s fine too! You can also substitute with tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
Rice: Long-grain white rice is the go-to here, but you can use brown rice or jasmine rice. Keep in mind that the cooking time may need adjusting for brown rice.
Chicken Broth: Using low-sodium broth lets you control the saltiness. If you want a non-chicken version, vegetable broth works great too!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter dish, you can substitute with half-and-half or whole milk, though it may not be as rich. Dairy-free? Try coconut milk for a creamy consistency!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds nice flavor, but feel free to use Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
How Do I Ensure My Rice Cooks Perfectly?
Cooking rice can be tricky, but here’s a simple guide. The key is measuring and timing.
- Start by rinsing your rice until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and helps prevent sticking.
- After adding the broth, bring everything to a boil. It’s essential to cover the pan to trap steam, so the rice cooks evenly.
- Simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes. Don’t lift the lid during cooking—it lets out steam!
- Once done, let it sit for a few minutes off the heat before serving. This step lets the rice finish absorbing moisture!
How to Make Creamy Chicken and Rice One-Pot Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious one-pot dinner takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 25 minutes to cook, giving you a total of about 35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a cozy weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or deep pan over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Add the chicken to the pan and cook until browned on all sides but not fully cooked through, about 4-5 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same pan, add the chopped onion. Cook it until it becomes translucent, which takes about 3 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. This helps build a flavorful base for your dish!
3. Toast the Rice:
Next, stir in the rice and cook for 1-2 minutes. This light toasting brings out a nutty flavor in the rice that makes the dish extra tasty.
4. Add the Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth while scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan—those bits carry lots of flavor. Bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Simmer It All Together:
Return the chicken to the pan, give it a good stir, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through. Remember, don’t lift the lid while it cooks!
6. Make It Creamy:
Once the rice is ready, stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan, and frozen peas if you’re using them. Cook uncovered for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through and creamy.
7. Season and Serve:
Give the dish a taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Finally, garnish with fresh parsley or chives before serving warm. Enjoy!
Your creamy, comforting one-pot chicken and rice dinner is now ready to be savored. Happy cooking!
FAQ for Creamy Chicken and Rice One-Pot Dinner
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can! However, you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and the amount of liquid. Brown rice typically requires about 1 cup more broth and an additional 10-15 minutes of simmering time. Just ensure it’s tender before serving!
How Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?
To make the dish dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a non-dairy cream alternative. For cheese, you can use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Can I Store Leftovers?
Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen up the consistency if it thickens.
What Vegetables Can I Add to This Dish?
Feel free to customize your one-pot dinner by adding other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms. Just chop them and sauté them along with the onions for added flavor and nutrition!
